Virtual Ride of Volcan Baru Trail

Conditions

Conditions History

“This is a long, steep, rocky, technical descent.”

Dogs
Leashed

Features
-none-

Very rarely gets closed due to weather conditions.

Overview

Descend from Panama's highest point for a 5,500 run down a volcano.

Need to Know

Weather conditions vary greatly and you must prepare for the possibility of cold, wind, and rain, especially at the top. An entry fee to the national park area must be payed, $2 for Panamanians and $5 for foreigners, the gatekeeper only works during the day, if you summit during the night, be sure to pay your entry on the way back down. It contributes to keeping the trail open and relatively clean. There is no water or food resupply anywhere along the way, you must come fully prepared.

Description

Once you're in Boquete, ask around for the Volcan Baru Trail. Then, find someone who can drive you to the top of the volcano. As of 2016 it was $200 for a pickup ride to the top for 5-6 people (a bit cramped albeit).

A couple of hours later when you get to the top, point your bike downhill and hang on. This is a very long, steep, and rocky descent with an elevation loss of over 5,000 ft in just a couple of miles.

The trail is maintained by the antenna maintenance crew, it is accessible only by very capable 4x4s. Riding up this trail by bike would be very hard, even for a strong athlete. Rideable spots are few and far between and account for 10% of the way.

History & Background

This is the highest point in Panama, standing at 11,401 ft/ 3,475m above sea level.